The lyrics of the song "We Got By" by Al Jarreau portray a story of perseverance, resilience, and triumph over adversity. It represents the journey of a person who has faced various challenges and hardships but managed to overcome them.
The opening lines paint a picture of a modest and challenging upbringing, symbolized by the lack of material possessions and the need to improvise during holidays. Despite not having much, the narrator finds joy in the simple things and remains hopeful.
As the song progresses, it reveals the determination to create a better life. The mention of riding buses and trains and strolling for miles to watch movies represents the persistence and effort made to enjoy life's pleasures, even when they seemed out of reach. The line "while birds and rich folks flew right on by" indicates the socio-economic disparity present in their life.
However, the lyrics also express a sense of gratitude and contentment in the face of adversity. The repetition of the refrain "we got by, Lord knows we got by" reinforces the idea that despite the struggles, they managed to survive and find happiness in their circumstances.
The later verses celebrate the progress made. The mention of having a bellyful, a new bicycle, and the mother's dreams of Los Angeles demonstrate the achievement of their goals and the fulfillment of their desires. It signifies the relentless dedication, hard work, and faith that led them to overcome obstacles and create a better life for themselves and their family.
Overall, "We Got By" conveys a message of hope, resilience, and the power of perseverance. It celebrates the indomitable spirit of the human experience, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we can find joy and success if we keep pushing forward.
This meaning interpretation has been generated by AI.
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